Generation:
BJ (Second Generation)
Chassis Codes:
BJ3P, BJ5P, BJFP, BJ8W, BJE3, BJ5W, BJFW
Engine Codes Early:
B3 (1.3L), B5 (1.5L), BP (1.8L), FS-DE (2.0L)
Engine Codes Late:
ZY-VE (1.5L, 2001-2003), FS-DE (2.0L, 2001-2003), FP-DE (1.8L Diesel)
Target Audience:
Value-conscious buyers seeking reliable transportation with a sporty driving feel, young drivers, small families
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier
Strengths:
Engaging handling, affordable pricing, good fuel economy, sporty styling (especially later models and Mazdaspeed variant), availability of manual transmissions.
Design Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('Horse and Rider as One') - Mazda's core philosophy emphasizing driver engagement and responsiveness.
Engine Options:
Wide range of 4-cylinder engines, from economical to performance-oriented.
Performance Variant:
Mazdaspeed Protege (2003-2003) with turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension.
Body Styles:
Sedan, Hatchback (3-door and 5-door), Station Wagon
Trim Levels:
DX, LX, ES, MP3, Mazdaspeed Protege, SE, GT, GS, LX-E, Sport
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, Engine control systems (EFI/MPI), Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Manual transmission, Automatic transmission
Chassis:
Front suspension, Rear suspension, Steering system, Brake system (disc, drum, ABS), Wheel alignment
Electrical:
12V battery system, Charging system (alternator), Starting system (starter motor), Lighting system, Ignition system, Engine Control Module (ECM) and related sensors, Transmission Control Module (TCM) and related sensors, Body Control Module (BCM), Instrument cluster, Power windows, Power locks, Wiper/washer system, Climate control system, Audio system, Airbag system (SRS), Antilock Braking System (ABS) module, Cruise control
Body And Interior:
Body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior trim, Seats, HVAC components, Sealing systems
Maintenance:
Oil change, Filter replacement (oil, air, fuel, cabin), Spark plug replacement, Coolant flush and fill, Brake fluid flush, Transmission fluid change, Belt inspection and replacement, Tune-up procedures
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine disassembly and reassembly (including specific torque specs and clearances), Cylinder head service, Piston and connecting rod replacement, Crankshaft service, Transmission overhaul (manual and automatic), Clutch replacement, Brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, Suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings, ball joints), Steering rack replacement, Alternator and starter motor replacement, Radiator and water pump replacement, Fuel injector service, Ignition coil replacement
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their meanings, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Electrical circuit diagrams, Component testing procedures (resistance, voltage, continuity), Fuel system pressure testing, Emissions control system diagnosis
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from routine maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Includes detailed exploded views, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Code:
BP-ZE (1.8L DOHC)
Horsepower:
122 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
117 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Code:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC)
Horsepower:
118 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
125 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Mazdaspeed Engine:
2.0L DOHC Turbocharged FS-Y (FS-DET)
Mazdaspeed Horsepower:
170 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Mazdaspeed Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)
Injection:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for turbo)
Length:
approx. 4410 mm (173.6 in)
Width:
approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
approx. 2610 mm (102.8 in)
Curb Weight Min:
approx. 1150 kg (2535 lbs)
Curb Weight Max:
approx. 1300 kg (2866 lbs) for turbo models
Trunk Volume:
Varies by body style, sedan around 0.35 m³ (12.4 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not rated for all years/configurations, some early models may have lower ratings.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not rated for all years/configurations.
ABS:
Available on higher trims and optional on many models
Traction Control:
Available on some later models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most models from mid-generation onwards.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD or Cassette player with varying speaker configurations (4-8 speakers).
Navigation:
Rarely equipped from factory, typically aftermarket additions.
Cruise Control:
Available on many trims, standard on higher trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions or specific MP3 trim levels.
HVAC:
Manual climate control standard, automatic climate control available on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km)
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km)
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.1 quarts (3.9 L) for 1.8L/2.0L engines
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (check specific manual for exact type)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF-MV or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to vibration.
Exhaust System:
Rust and corrosion, particularly on mufflers and pipes.
Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings are common on higher mileage vehicles.
Radiator And Hoses:
Can develop leaks due to age and heat cycles.
Automatic Transmission:
Some models may experience shifting issues or transmission failure if not properly maintained.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can fail.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's reputation for building driver-focused, reliable, and often stylish vehicles.
Generation Start:
1996 (BJ generation introduction)
Midcycle Refresh:
2001 (significant styling and mechanical updates)
Performance Variant:
Mazdaspeed Protege introduced for 2003 model year.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, Mexico
End Of Production North America:
2003 (replaced by Mazda3)
End Of Production Global:
2006 (depending on market)
